By Ikenna Nwokedi 

In the halls of the Faculty of Biosciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State, one name echoes and resonates with rising academic prominence. The story of Dr. Chinwendu Njideka Ozoh, a distinguished University don in the Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing.

Dr. Ozoh, a prolific researcher has authored and co-authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications in high impact factor journals. Noteworthy among them is a 2025 study analyzing the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of native Nigerian plants Cassia alata, Ficus saussureana, Momordica charantia, and Moringa oleifera.

Dr. Ozoh's profligacy can also be seen in one of her 2024 publications which investigated the sensory and nutritional qualities of fermented versus unfermented beetroot–ginger–garlic beverages, and the biochemical effects of different palm wine varieties.

The scholar hitherto had research exploring antibiotic activity in Aspergillus isolates from sewage, as well as shelf-life and packaging effects on smoked fish in Anambra State.

Beyond the laboratory, Dr. Ozoh’s work carries significant public health implications as her investigations into drinkable soymilk, smoked fish packaging and alternative beverages intersect community nutrition with microbial safety with the research findings enhancing local food quality standards and addresses critical public health challenges in Anambra and beyond.

Dr. Ozoh's early academic journey culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Health Microbiology from UNIZIK in June 2023 becoming the first in that field of Microbiology which reflects her commitment to research and academic excellence.

Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Ozoh honed her expertise with a Master’s degree in Medical/Public Health Microbiology from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State and a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Microbiology to complement her foundation in Science Laboratory Technology bagged from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.

Her current professional trajectory includes serving as Staff Adviser to the National Association of Microbiology and Brewing Students, along with active roles in departmental and faculty leadership—a testament to her dedication to mentorship and institutional development. She continues to inspire students and professionals, tackling pressing microbiological challenges with scholarly rigor and community focus.

In her own words, through scholarly contributions and classroom engagement, Dr. Ozoh aims, “to foster the next generation of microbiologists, equipped to tackle Nigeria’s complex health and food safety issues," a trajectory of rigorous inquiry, applied solutions and heartfelt service.

Dr. Chinwendu Njideka Ozoh is no doubt a published researcher, educator and public health advocate. She is currently a Lecturer I at Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Faculty of Biosciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.